Importance

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Abstract

In accordance with the present invention there is provided a delivery apparatus for a self-expanding stent. The apparatus includes an outer sheath, which is an elongated tubular member having distal and proximal ends. The outer sheath is made from an outer polymeric layer, an inner polymeric layer, and a braided reinforcing layer between the inner and outer layers. The reinforcing layer is more rigid than the inner and outer layers. The apparatus further includes an inner shaft located coaxially within the outer sheath. The shaft has a distal end, extending distal to the distal end of the sheath, and a proximal end, extending proximal to the proximal end of the sheath. The shaft further includes a stop attached thereto. The stop is proximal to the distal end of the sheath. Lastly, the apparatus includes a self-expanding stent located within the sheath. The stent makes frictional contact with the inner layer of the sheath. The stent is located between the stop and the distal end of the sheath, with a portion of the shaft disposed coaxially within a lumen of the stent. The stent makes contact with the stop during deployment of the stent.

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First Claim